CBS and ‘Big Bang Theory’ cast still negotiating new contracts, could delay production

The next season of CBS’ The Big Bang Theory could be delayed next season due to ongoing contract negotiations. The show’s core cast; Jim Parsons, Johnny Galecki, Kaley Cuoco-Sweeting, Simon Helberg and Kunal Nayyar are currently negotiating new contracts after their old ones expired at the conclusion of last season.

The eighth season of the hit show is scheduled to begin filming on July 30, however, if their new contracts aren’t hammered out by then a delay could take place.

Back in March, the show was renewed for three more years. The show has been on the air since 2007 and is currently the most watched television show on air.

Although the contracts for the main cast are still being negotiated, Melissa Rauch and Mayim Bialik signed new contracts last year.

CBS’ Nina Tassler said at the 2014 TCA Summer Press Tour, “We’re feeling very confident that everything will work out. These deals manage to get done miraculously somehow year after year.”

Deadline reports it’s possible that Galecki, Parsons and Cuoco, who are negotiating together, could get a $1 million payday per episode – just like the Friends cast made history for.